G'Day all. I'm putting out some early feelers for suggestions about travelling around alone in a van. The plan is to be on the road early 2017. My early thoughts are for a hilux ute or similar with a Matilda van on back or a Sherwood.
My first decision is to buy a used 4x4 or 2x4? 2x4s are more plentiful for sale & look in better condition. I'm leaning towards a 4x4 for peace of mind. I don't intend to do anything spectacular like those Gun-Barrel treks etc but I'd like to travel around Australia zig-zag fashion on side-roads and dirt tracks. Not full-on off-road like some Youtube videos but certainly a little adventurous. Alone.
So do you blokes reckon a 2x4 is good enough or should I seek a 4x4?
I'd welcome a chat on the subject.
-- Edited by AaLF on Sunday 6th of December 2015 11:24:56 PM
Welcome to the forums..
Plenty of paces you can go 2 wheel drive.. You'll work it out when you go looking for the vehicle and your budget etc..
I would go diesel and 4 wheel drive, inlet snorkel BUT it depends on your budget ?
One thing you'll possibly require is suspension mods due to higher centre of gravity & weight..
Your planning.. That's a good start..
AaLF said
01:11 AM Dec 7, 2015
G'Day. Thanks for the comment. That's just what I was leaning towards. 4x4 Diesel Snorkel. Plus my roads wont all be smooth so suspension is important.
You've touched on an issue, budget - which I'm undecided on. I can afford a new one if I can convince myself its worth it. But I don't see a $60K 2nd hand much dif. from $110k newbie. Plus I'm a bit of procrastinator when it comes to deciding on things.
If I go for a NEW rig there's so many options + models. Money aside what would you guys choose for yourselves as a lone traveller. My own 'must haves' are a similar style to the photo attached + shower & loo. So far I agree with Diesel + snorkel + best suspension. So what else to look for in a small motorhome?
-- Edited by AaLF on Monday 7th of December 2015 01:30:36 AM
Welcome to the gang AaLF, enjoy here and out in the playground.
When I first started in this new adventure in the playground 4 years ago from my previous life I decided to go with a second hand 4x4. All checked out AOK. However after only 3 months trouble started, then triple trouble and so it continued. In 2014 I started a northern migration from Gippsland VIC to Townsville QLD. I was stranded 3 times and had to get help from NRMA.
On my arrival in Townsville I bit the bullet and researched etc and finally bought a New 4x4 Colorado. Great choice for my needs. I have since done a rear suspention upgrade and I am very happy with that. I am currently enjoying Central VIC trouble free.
I only tell you all that as it may or may not help with decisions ahead of you.
There are many "stories" out here in the playground and I am sure more will be along soon.
No matter what you decide on,
Keep Safe on the roads.
Peter_n_Margaret said
08:23 AM Dec 7, 2015
We owned a slide-on for 12 years.
I would advise against one. They will always be heavier than a similar sized motorhome and a motorhome will also have a much lower centre of gravity.
Those smaller vehicles don't have the weight carrying capacity and are always overloaded, or close and that problem is even bigger with the 4WD versions because they start out heavier.
My advise would be to go for a Toyota Landcruiser Troopy. A much tougher vehicle with plenty of capacity for fuel and water.
4WD is for getting out of trouble. It is also more stable on gravel roads.
Cheers,
Peter
PeterInSa said
10:02 AM Dec 7, 2015
Would also consider a second hand 4 x 4 Sprinter similar to the unit below
Or similar unit with Dining area in the rear rather than a double bed ie Table in the middle of 2 bench seats, drop down table and convert to double bed, or just sleep on one side of the table.
Peter
dirvine said
11:17 AM Dec 7, 2015
Hi Alf,
Like me you are having all these issues. I can understand why a slide on could be preferable, as you can leave it behind on day trips. Fixed ones are another issue. But like what others say, they are very heavy and loaded up and usually are at maximum weight for the vehicle. You can get axle load upgrades on many of the popular utes, however, one thing i noticed on the Simpson this year was the number of bent chasis by ute type vehicles either overloaded or not properly balanced. And I am not talking about cheap brand names. As you will see, what you find with the difference between 2wd and 4wd of the same units, other than the transmission, is that the 4wd has a little better suspension that in all reality needs to be beefed up even more in any case. Its what is not beefed up that matters. Also the carrying capacity of some utes is very questionable. I think Pat Callinan did something about how the Ford ad tried to say they could carry a heap more than a Toyota. In reality the overall numbers did not stack up. I wont try and advise you what to buy, but rather try and help point you in the direction of what you need to consider and make sure has been addressed by the manufacturer should you decide.
Yuglamron said
11:36 AM Dec 7, 2015
One site I came across is RV Traders which have all types of vehicles both new and preloved.
There is also the CMCA website where there is a section non- members can see vehicles for sale in Australia.
I hope you find something that suits you.
AaLF said
01:26 PM Dec 7, 2015
Wooo. Some feedback. Haven't been touring since the 70s/80s. And that was Kombie +tenting + shovel. I'm looking forward to more comments.
Here's what I got from the above remarks.......
My original idea of a Matilda on the back of a ute is maybe not the best idea. No problem. I'm wide open for change. PeterinSA has thrown me a bone which I'm gnawing on right now. A 4x4 van. Never thought of that. http://www.customcoasterconversions.com.au/Mercedes-Sprinter.html
I like it. Meets the basis needs> Single traveller. Shower + loo. Easy to avoid caravan-parks (I'm a bit of a loner).
Could u blokes throw in some feedback on this style of touring?
And are there other Sprinter style 4x4 small motor homes around that I can look for?
If I go for a 4tyres on rear (not dual axle) will a 2x4 get me around dirt tracks etc OK or does the 4x4 offer something way & above?
-- Edited by AaLF on Monday 7th of December 2015 02:36:13 PM
I would look Interstate for RV's as well eg www.sydneyrv.com.au also www.motekvehicles.com for ex rental units but are more likely to me to be 2 wheel drive. ( you will need to copy/paste web addresses)
Peter
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Monday 7th of December 2015 01:43:01 PM
Aus-Kiwi said
09:49 PM Dec 7, 2015
Now he's 1000% confused ?? HAHA ..
yES I would ere on the larger more room style.. Especially if you plane to free camp ?
With solar, water etc.. Sprinter has basically same running gear as Cruiser so parts and spares shouldn't be an issue..
Stick my neck out again .. Are you really into 4WD type sights ?? As plenty do fine with RWD dual tyres on rear..
Could be the difference in price ?? Extra weigh more fuel consumption.. But obviously safer in bad terrain..
Peter_n_Margaret said
10:36 PM Dec 7, 2015
AaLF wrote:
If I go for a 4tyres on rear (not dual axle) will a 2x4 get me around dirt tracks etc OK or does the 4x4 offer something way & above?
The 4x4 is way above.
In fact dual rear wheels are a liability off the black top. The front and rear wheel tracks are different and that is bad news in soft stuff.
Stones can get caught between the duals and that is really bad for the tyres.
Bigger diameter single tyres are always best. The bigger diameter and higher profile the better.
Cheers,
Peter
AaLF said
12:05 AM Dec 8, 2015
OK. So 4x4 is superior. But No...I'm not aiming for macho 4x4 treks. My journeys are intended to be long ones - gone for a year or more - not 3 weeks north or 2 weeks west etc. So hence a shower & loo on board is more appealing than a landcruiser and a shovel. I'd love to venture beyond Birdsville but what small motorhome can go there? None me thinks. Saw a youtube video on a Sprinter 4x4. I'd roll it for sure. Plus I doubt its got enuff grunt for those sand-dunes.
So 'Back of Birdsville' seems maybe a little too bold for an on-board shower + loo setup. What I like about the sprinter is you are up higher plus walk-thru. What I dont like is it looks as if it could tip over with just a slight bit of carelessness.
Solar panels self sufficiency etc are a 'given' as I intend to shy away from caravan parks.
Thank God I've decided to think about this well in advance.
Aus-Kiwi said
12:27 AM Dec 8, 2015
Would Cruiser or Patrol with camper trailer with out back suspension be an option ??
Centre of gravity is better ..
Tomcat said
05:41 AM Dec 8, 2015
Hello AaLF
The late much respected Mr David_Attenborough said that "Australia was the Flattest continent on earth" but we lack bitumen roads for 2x4's here. We need Traction to travel a lot of our scenic places for which 2x4 does not allow. For myself 2 examples come to mind for 4X4. I saw a segment on a 4X4 TV show many years ago about Litchfield National Park and the Lost City. It exited me to travel and see such a place and in 2012 I did. Leaving from the Caravan Park just passed Batchelor we arived at the turn off to The Lost City and first warning sign you see is 4X4 Only. The first Part of the track is quite sandy which requires in my opinion a vehicle with substantial traction. So the difference between seeing and not seeing the Lost City is having a 4X4.
The other example having travelled around the country on Highway One is the many Beaches that you Free Camp on. Tractor Beach and Fitzgerald's Beach come to mind. Sure there are plenty of other travellers out there to pull you out of a sandy mess but being able to look after ones self is better. Hope this helps you in your decision making process. Tom.
AaLF said
05:56 AM Dec 8, 2015
I would love a 4x4 landcruiser + mini caravan equivalent in size to say a matilda snail home (see pic). But..... onceu tow a van it makes nat. park campsites etc more difficult no? Plus u got to leave the van behind even on easy 4x4tracks unless u spend big money. And it seems an uncomfortable way to travel yes?
As for a landcruiser camper set up it seems too small for long trips for months on end + no loo & shower?
How about a 4x4 lunch-mobile? Any comments (see pic)?
Having done extensive 4wd sand driving Alf, its not traction but "floatation"that gets you through. So low tyre pressure to 15psi and using momentum you will float over the top. As far as birdsville, that is easily done in 2wd car. West of birdsville, good idea to have 4wd although it can be done in 2wd but I would not reccommend due to enviromental damage it may cause. But north of birdsville is also 2wd.as is east. You are correct about dual wheels off the bitumen and I would steer clear of that type of vehicle. As others have said above, what a can of worms, and so many possibilities, but each with its own type of compromise. Everybody is different so in the end its what you can not do without and go frim there. The other thing which we are doing is hiring items ie campertrailers in our case to fund out what we like and dont like. Also the hire companies with motor home hire, often have hire rates for nothing even with a small fuel allowance tonget people to drive them from place a to place b. We did a cairns to sydney trip in one and that put us off motor homes expecially the ones where the bed is above the cab or you lower down, or have to drop the kitchen table to make the bed. We are not monkeys any more and if one person wants to sit up they are a pita. Others however will extoll all the vitues of these. So that is another possibility to do some short test runs to eliminate what you dont like.
AaLF said
12:26 PM Dec 8, 2015
Good points Dirvine. Seems these 4wd tracks are overrated. Just googled the Oodnatta track. Google estimates its only a 19hr trip. https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Oodnadatta+Track,+Oodnadatta,+South+Australia/Birdsville+QLD+4482/@-27.7547749,134.9940375,7z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x2ad35a63b7001fe1:0x67a20f102805a89f!2m2!1d134.837834!2d-27.293797!1m5!1m1!1s0x6a6873c6bb92d6fd:0x400eef17f2097e0!2m2!1d139.3535809!2d-25.8982908
Must say I'm grey myself and those climb-up bunks are a put-off. Been watching some youtube videos. The places that appeal to me call for a genuine 4x4. Oodnadatta track vids. have turned me off rough roads. Me thinking now a 2x4 is the go and hire something if I want to experience 4x4. Time for a cuppa.
Aus-Kiwi said
02:36 AM Dec 9, 2015
AaLF wrote:
I would love a 4x4 landcruiser + mini caravan equivalent in size to say a matilda snail home (see pic). But..... onceu tow a van it makes nat. park campsites etc more difficult no? Plus u got to leave the van behind even on easy 4x4tracks unless u spend big money. And it seems an uncomfortable way to travel yes?
As for a landcruiser camper set up it seems too small for long trips for months on end + no loo & shower?
How about a 4x4 lunch-mobile? Any comments (see pic)?
I was thinking camper trailer.. lighter if set up right suspension wise it will tow EASY.. ???
Yes we want it ALL.. lol..
Peter_n_Margaret said
10:47 AM Dec 9, 2015
Towing ANYTHING severely restricts where a 4WD can go, even a very good one and if you are on the road for long periods it is most undesirable to have to back track to pick up your "accommodation" every time you want to go somewhere a bit more difficult. Those are just the places to stop for an extra week with no one else around.
Sometimes, we choose to tow a boat (not possible if you are already towing your accommodation), but we only do that when we are intending to do a couple of months fishing or water touring.
We prefer not to tow anything.
Cheers,
Peter
Nelly said
05:48 PM Dec 9, 2015
Hello AaLF - welcome to this great forum. I have a sprinter and have driven on a few gravel roads - I have been to Birdsville in a 4wd but I would consider going in the sprinter. My idea is that you just drive to the conditions obviously no off-road as such. The gravel roads out there seem to be quite ok. I have also considered driving to Coober Pedy and then to the Painted Desert and as far as I know it would be on gravel roads but at the end of the day it is up to you and what you want to do and see I suppose. Good luck with your research!!
Aus-Kiwi said
01:56 AM Dec 10, 2015
Trouble is its a compromise unless you have deep pockets..
I know a young couple who have a Cruiser with pull out side awnings, annex..
They sleep in a swag ..The thing is the G/F I thought wasn't the type to do this as she is an office worker
big time.. Was I so wrong..They have camped like this all around Australia and New Zealand..
AaLF said
05:45 PM Dec 10, 2015
Thanks for comments ppl. For now I'm leaving 4x4 alone. I think I'll be content with a2wd. Many days will be spent turning off to drive up a side road to access Nat. Park camp sites. I can always change later if the urge takes me. As I mentioned in most posts. I'm not setting off with a shovel in one hand & a toilet roll in the other. Nor am I willing to squat in a fly-blown sauna tent on a potty. This time its an on-board ensuite.
As for the vehicle I'm leaning towards a Medium-length hi-roof Merc sprinter. As I'm a single traveller I'll likely want to do some mods to what I find. Such as tearing out those big family lounges and setting up a desk/bench with a good chair for Net browsing and dinner table. And give some space to a bigger ensuite.
So can someone recommend a custom campervan conversions business in Sydney?
Is it better to grab an empty van and start from scratch rather than modify?
Do I really need to buy a 'new' diesel sprinter?
-- Edited by AaLF on Thursday 10th of December 2015 05:46:09 PM
-- Edited by AaLF on Thursday 10th of December 2015 05:46:59 PM
Aalf,
Re Medium Length Sprinter, to me the best value for money in this size vehicle is an Ex Ambo if you are a DIY type of person. But there is one model ambo to me you should avoid, see the Sprinter Forum for Blown Engines etc, but there is a mod the can help to avoid this problem.
To me a Long wheel base (LWB) Sprinter is a better option, more room eg 313 LWB or a 413 with dual rear wheels, 2.2Lt 4 Cylinder 130 Bhp. 10Lt to 100Km at 95Km/hr. GVM of the 313 is around 3350Kg and 413 around 4430Kg??.
Peter
Aus-Kiwi said
10:26 PM Dec 10, 2015
Let us know what you come across.. There's more options than you think..
I'm not scared of second hand diesels, [I diesel?] I check them big time ...
Cleanliness inside rocker cover and blowby out rocker cover under load..
How its sounds from cold start etc..
AaLF said
11:45 PM Dec 10, 2015
Aus-Kiwi, I wouldn't have clue about engines. I'll be looking for more serious defects - such as ensuring the duco ain't red. Hate that color on a car. Always seems to fade.
Pete can u post up a pic or two or a link or two of an ex- ambo sprinter. And I'm passed DIY. I'll be looking for a campervan fit-out company in sydney to do the work.
Aus-Kiwi said
12:36 AM Dec 11, 2015
Most are white .. Keep in mind in outback engine is sort of important.. LOl..
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Friday 11th of December 2015 08:21:12 AM
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Friday 11th of December 2015 08:24:40 AM
Nelly said
08:23 AM Dec 12, 2015
For what it is worth AaLF - our mechanic advised to be a bit careful of ex-ambo's. He pointed out the fact that imagine, for example, in Sydney - stopping - starting - slowing down - speeding up - etc etc. Happy researching!!!
G'Day all. I'm putting out some early feelers for suggestions about travelling around alone in a van. The plan is to be on the road early 2017. My early thoughts are for a hilux ute or similar with a Matilda van on back or a Sherwood.
My first decision is to buy a used 4x4 or 2x4? 2x4s are more plentiful for sale & look in better condition. I'm leaning towards a 4x4 for peace of mind. I don't intend to do anything spectacular like those Gun-Barrel treks etc but I'd like to travel around Australia zig-zag fashion on side-roads and dirt tracks. Not full-on off-road like some Youtube videos but certainly a little adventurous. Alone.
So do you blokes reckon a 2x4 is good enough or should I seek a 4x4?
I'd welcome a chat on the subject.
-- Edited by AaLF on Sunday 6th of December 2015 11:24:56 PM
Plenty of paces you can go 2 wheel drive.. You'll work it out when you go looking for the vehicle and your budget etc..
I would go diesel and 4 wheel drive, inlet snorkel BUT it depends on your budget ?
One thing you'll possibly require is suspension mods due to higher centre of gravity & weight..
Your planning.. That's a good start..
G'Day. Thanks for the comment. That's just what I was leaning towards. 4x4 Diesel Snorkel. Plus my roads wont all be smooth so suspension is important.
You've touched on an issue, budget - which I'm undecided on. I can afford a new one if I can convince myself its worth it. But I don't see a $60K 2nd hand much dif. from $110k newbie. Plus I'm a bit of procrastinator when it comes to deciding on things.
If I go for a NEW rig there's so many options + models. Money aside what would you guys choose for yourselves as a lone traveller. My own 'must haves' are a similar style to the photo attached + shower & loo. So far I agree with Diesel + snorkel + best suspension. So what else to look for in a small motorhome?
-- Edited by AaLF on Monday 7th of December 2015 01:30:36 AM
When I first started in this new adventure in the playground 4 years ago from my previous life I decided to go with a second hand 4x4. All checked out AOK. However after only 3 months trouble started, then triple trouble and so it continued. In 2014 I started a northern migration from Gippsland VIC to Townsville QLD. I was stranded 3 times and had to get help from NRMA.
On my arrival in Townsville I bit the bullet and researched etc and finally bought a New 4x4 Colorado. Great choice for my needs. I have since done a rear suspention upgrade and I am very happy with that. I am currently enjoying Central VIC trouble free.
I only tell you all that as it may or may not help with decisions ahead of you.
There are many "stories" out here in the playground and I am sure more will be along soon.
No matter what you decide on,
Keep Safe on the roads.
I would advise against one. They will always be heavier than a similar sized motorhome and a motorhome will also have a much lower centre of gravity.
Those smaller vehicles don't have the weight carrying capacity and are always overloaded, or close and that problem is even bigger with the 4WD versions because they start out heavier.
My advise would be to go for a Toyota Landcruiser Troopy. A much tougher vehicle with plenty of capacity for fuel and water.
4WD is for getting out of trouble. It is also more stable on gravel roads.
Cheers,
Peter
www.customcoasterconversions.com.au/Mercedes-Sprinter.html
Or similar unit with Dining area in the rear rather than a double bed ie Table in the middle of 2 bench seats, drop down table and convert to double bed, or just sleep on one side of the table.
Peter
Like me you are having all these issues. I can understand why a slide on could be preferable, as you can leave it behind on day trips. Fixed ones are another issue. But like what others say, they are very heavy and loaded up and usually are at maximum weight for the vehicle. You can get axle load upgrades on many of the popular utes, however, one thing i noticed on the Simpson this year was the number of bent chasis by ute type vehicles either overloaded or not properly balanced. And I am not talking about cheap brand names. As you will see, what you find with the difference between 2wd and 4wd of the same units, other than the transmission, is that the 4wd has a little better suspension that in all reality needs to be beefed up even more in any case. Its what is not beefed up that matters. Also the carrying capacity of some utes is very questionable. I think Pat Callinan did something about how the Ford ad tried to say they could carry a heap more than a Toyota. In reality the overall numbers did not stack up. I wont try and advise you what to buy, but rather try and help point you in the direction of what you need to consider and make sure has been addressed by the manufacturer should you decide.
One site I came across is RV Traders which have all types of vehicles both new and preloved.
this is a link to them.
http://www.tradervs.com.au/?gclid=CKbLzYG_yMkCFU5afgodwUoPoA
This is another site to have a look at.
http://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/?gclid=CJyvmP2_yMkCFZFgfgodZokP7Q
There is also the CMCA website where there is a section non- members can see vehicles for sale in Australia.
I hope you find something that suits you.
Wooo. Some feedback. Haven't been touring since the 70s/80s. And that was Kombie +tenting + shovel. I'm looking forward to more comments.
Here's what I got from the above remarks.......
My original idea of a Matilda on the back of a ute is maybe not the best idea. No problem. I'm wide open for change. PeterinSA has thrown me a bone which I'm gnawing on right now. A 4x4 van. Never thought of that. http://www.customcoasterconversions.com.au/Mercedes-Sprinter.html
I like it. Meets the basis needs> Single traveller. Shower + loo. Easy to avoid caravan-parks (I'm a bit of a loner).
-- Edited by AaLF on Monday 7th of December 2015 02:36:13 PM
Aalf
If you buy a New or Used Sprinter 2 or 4x4, I suggest you join this Forum.
sprinter-source.com/forum/forumdisplay.php
Lot of members willing to give good advice.
I would look Interstate for RV's as well eg www.sydneyrv.com.au also www.motekvehicles.com for ex rental units but are more likely to me to be 2 wheel drive. ( you will need to copy/paste web addresses)
Peter
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Monday 7th of December 2015 01:43:01 PM
yES I would ere on the larger more room style.. Especially if you plane to free camp ?
With solar, water etc.. Sprinter has basically same running gear as Cruiser so parts and spares shouldn't be an issue..
Stick my neck out again .. Are you really into 4WD type sights ?? As plenty do fine with RWD dual tyres on rear..
Could be the difference in price ?? Extra weigh more fuel consumption.. But obviously safer in bad terrain..
The 4x4 is way above.
In fact dual rear wheels are a liability off the black top. The front and rear wheel tracks are different and that is bad news in soft stuff.
Stones can get caught between the duals and that is really bad for the tyres.
Bigger diameter single tyres are always best. The bigger diameter and higher profile the better.
Cheers,
Peter
So 'Back of Birdsville' seems maybe a little too bold for an on-board shower + loo setup. What I like about the sprinter is you are up higher plus walk-thru. What I dont like is it looks as if it could tip over with just a slight bit of carelessness.
Solar panels self sufficiency etc are a 'given' as I intend to shy away from caravan parks.
Thank God I've decided to think about this well in advance.
Centre of gravity is better ..
Hello AaLF
The late much respected Mr David_Attenborough said that "Australia was the Flattest continent on earth" but we lack bitumen roads for 2x4's here. We need Traction to travel a lot of our scenic places for which 2x4 does not allow. For myself 2 examples come to mind for 4X4. I saw a segment on a 4X4 TV show many years ago about Litchfield National Park and the Lost City. It exited me to travel and see such a place and in 2012 I did. Leaving from the Caravan Park just passed Batchelor we arived at the turn off to The Lost City and first warning sign you see is 4X4 Only. The first Part of the track is quite sandy which requires in my opinion a vehicle with substantial traction. So the difference between seeing and not seeing the Lost City is having a 4X4.
The other example having travelled around the country on Highway One is the many Beaches that you Free Camp on. Tractor Beach and Fitzgerald's Beach come to mind. Sure there are plenty of other travellers out there to pull you out of a sandy mess but being able to look after ones self is better. Hope this helps you in your decision making process. Tom.
I would love a 4x4 landcruiser + mini caravan equivalent in size to say a matilda snail home (see pic). But..... onceu tow a van it makes nat. park campsites etc more difficult no? Plus u got to leave the van behind even on easy 4x4tracks unless u spend big money. And it seems an uncomfortable way to travel yes?
As for a landcruiser camper set up it seems too small for long trips for months on end + no loo & shower?
How about a 4x4 lunch-mobile? Any comments (see pic)?
Good points Dirvine. Seems these 4wd tracks are overrated. Just googled the Oodnatta track. Google estimates its only a 19hr trip. https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/Oodnadatta+Track,+Oodnadatta,+South+Australia/Birdsville+QLD+4482/@-27.7547749,134.9940375,7z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!4m12!1m5!1m1!1s0x2ad35a63b7001fe1:0x67a20f102805a89f!2m2!1d134.837834!2d-27.293797!1m5!1m1!1s0x6a6873c6bb92d6fd:0x400eef17f2097e0!2m2!1d139.3535809!2d-25.8982908
Must say I'm grey myself and those climb-up bunks are a put-off. Been watching some youtube videos. The places that appeal to me call for a genuine 4x4. Oodnadatta track vids. have turned me off rough roads. Me thinking now a 2x4 is the go and hire something if I want to experience 4x4. Time for a cuppa.
I was thinking camper trailer.. lighter if set up right suspension wise it will tow EASY.. ???
Yes we want it ALL.. lol..
Sometimes, we choose to tow a boat (not possible if you are already towing your accommodation), but we only do that when we are intending to do a couple of months fishing or water touring.
We prefer not to tow anything.
Cheers,
Peter
Hello AaLF - welcome to this great forum. I have a sprinter and have driven on a few gravel roads - I have been to Birdsville in a 4wd but I would consider going in the sprinter. My idea is that you just drive to the conditions obviously no off-road as such. The gravel roads out there seem to be quite ok. I have also considered driving to Coober Pedy and then to the Painted Desert and as far as I know it would be on gravel roads but at the end of the day it is up to you and what you want to do and see I suppose. Good luck with your research!!
I know a young couple who have a Cruiser with pull out side awnings, annex..
They sleep in a swag ..The thing is the G/F I thought wasn't the type to do this as she is an office worker
big time.. Was I so wrong..They have camped like this all around Australia and New Zealand..
Thanks for comments ppl. For now I'm leaving 4x4 alone. I think I'll be content with a2wd. Many days will be spent turning off to drive up a side road to access Nat. Park camp sites. I can always change later if the urge takes me. As I mentioned in most posts. I'm not setting off with a shovel in one hand & a toilet roll in the other. Nor am I willing to squat in a fly-blown sauna tent on a potty. This time its an on-board ensuite.
As for the vehicle I'm leaning towards a Medium-length hi-roof Merc sprinter. As I'm a single traveller I'll likely want to do some mods to what I find. Such as tearing out those big family lounges and setting up a desk/bench with a good chair for Net browsing and dinner table. And give some space to a bigger ensuite.
So can someone recommend a custom campervan conversions business in Sydney?
Is it better to grab an empty van and start from scratch rather than modify?
Do I really need to buy a 'new' diesel sprinter?
-- Edited by AaLF on Thursday 10th of December 2015 05:46:09 PM
-- Edited by AaLF on Thursday 10th of December 2015 05:46:59 PM
Re Medium Length Sprinter, to me the best value for money in this size vehicle is an Ex Ambo if you are a DIY type of person. But there is one model ambo to me you should avoid, see the Sprinter Forum for Blown Engines etc, but there is a mod the can help to avoid this problem.
To me a Long wheel base (LWB) Sprinter is a better option, more room eg 313 LWB or a 413 with dual rear wheels, 2.2Lt 4 Cylinder 130 Bhp. 10Lt to 100Km at 95Km/hr. GVM of the 313 is around 3350Kg and 413 around 4430Kg??.
Peter
I'm not scared of second hand diesels, [I diesel?] I check them big time ...
Cleanliness inside rocker cover and blowby out rocker cover under load..
How its sounds from cold start etc..
Pete can u post up a pic or two or a link or two of an ex- ambo sprinter. And I'm passed DIY. I'll be looking for a campervan fit-out company in sydney to do the work.
Ex Ambo's
www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/mount-martha/cars-vans-utes/2005-mercedes-benz-2-7lt-sprinter-ex-ambulance/1084542297
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/condell-park/cars-vans-utes/2009-mercedes-benz-sprinter-906-my09-318-cdi-mwb-white-5-speed-automatic-van/1096815755
http://www.carpoint.com.au/all-cars/results.aspx?Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32%7C1%7C%7CpCar_Price_Decimal%7C1%7C%7CpCar_Make_String%7C0%7C%7CpCar_Model_String%7C0&SearchAction=N&Qpb=1&sid=1350ECF27D9C&Nne=15&N=1216%201246%201247%201252%201282%204294964187%201090%20244
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Friday 11th of December 2015 08:21:12 AM
-- Edited by PeterInSa on Friday 11th of December 2015 08:24:40 AM